There was no doubt that young Sunan Ali will turn it when it mattered, questioned was whether this youngster had it in him to put in a big match performance.
And he did not disappoint. Shunan’s 6 wickets for 18 runs in 7 overs may well be the best one day performance at this level in ACC competitions. Choosing to best first may have seemed like a safe bet for the Bhutanese, however, they were not allowed to settle in. Fast bowler Leem Shafeeg was the first amongst the wickets having both Dorji Khandu and Ugyen Dorji caught for 2 and 8 runs. Then it was the turn of Sunaan. He ripped through the top and middle order. Mohamed Shafee’s six overs were miserly as well giving away just 8 runs, while Leem went on to take 2 more wickets for a haul of 3 wickets for 7 runs in 3 overs. Bhutan were all out in the 20th over for just 46 runs. In reply, Rishwan started out as only he could, going aggressively at the Bhutan bowlers. He made a quick fire 23 from 12 balls with 2 sixes and 2 fours. Zaid and Leem made 8 and 7 runs to see Maldives over the line in the ninth over. Deservedly Sunan was adjudged man of the match for his outstanding bowling.
A tougher challenge lies ahead for the Maldivian youth on Tuesday when they take on favourites Oman.
Full scorecard courtesy of Thailand Cricket
